Nowadays, slot machines account for over 2/3 of casino profits, which is proof of how popular they have become. If you are a slot machine enthusiast, or if you find the idea of playing the slots appealing, one of the main reasons is probably the idea that you may win one of the jackpots.
Still, many people don’t understand exactly how jackpots work, so we’re going to tell you a bit about them and what you should keep in mind when going after them.
Types of jackpots
There are two types of jackpots: fixed jackpots, and progressive jackpots. Machines promising fixed jackpots are also called flat-tops. Their maximum output is fixed – for instance, hitting the jackpot will always get you let’s say 5,000 credits. Progressive jackpot machines have a meter which shows how large the jackpot is. The jackpot actually increases the more people play the machine. Sometimes, more machines are linked to the same jackpot. Playing either of them increases the value of the jackpot, and winning the jackpot on either of them resets the collective jackpot. The linked machines could be in the same casino or, in some cases, throughout the state. This is why progressive jackpots can be pretty high.
Although the value of a flat-top jackpot is lower, you generally have better odds of winning the jackpot at a flat-top than at a progressive machine. Unfortunately, that goes for winning chances in general. Progressive machines are generally tighter, because hundreds of machines can be linked to the same jackpot and it’s in the best interest of the establishment that the jackpot reaches values which will tempt players.
Jackpot values
The value of the jackpot for each of the machines should be displayed on the glass. Take a moment to read the information there, you will certainly find it useful. Identically looking machines may pay off different jackpots. You will notice that the differences between jackpots can be significant – sometimes one machine may offer a jackpot ten times lower than its identically looking neighbor.
While it’s your call which machine you play, you should know that smaller jackpots are usually easier to hit. The bigger the jackpot, the less likely it is you will win it. Then again, hitting the big jackpot once may equal hitting a smaller one several time, so it all depends on personal preferences and length of play really.
Progressive Jackpot requirements
You should know that a majority of slots only pay jackpots when the player has bet the maximum number of credits. This is similar to flat-tops, where the value of the jackpot payoff becomes larger the higher the bet.
Because you will need to bet the maximum amount to get a chance to win the jackpot, you should think what your betting range really is. Maybe choosing a lower denomination machine will allow you to play for longer and thus get more shots at the jackpot.
Slots can be really fun, but you can go through an impressive amount of money surprisingly quick. Take your time playing, and don’t press the auto-spin button. That way you will get to enjoy your experience more, for the same money.